COMM: As the tallest man in Brazil, everything
about Joelison Fernandes da Silva is big. Except for one thing. His tiny wife.
COMM: And they're almost three foot height
difference leaves many scratching their heads. Especially when it comes to the mechanics
of their love life.
COMM: But it's not all smooth sailing for
the unlikely couple as they contend with a meddling mother-in-law. Who struggles to let
her son stand on his own two feet.
COMM: As a teenager Joelison was bullied because
of his size and he became a recluse.
COMM: Doctors diagnosed Joelison with gigantism,
caused by a benign tumour on his pituitary gland, which was surgically removed when he was 21.
COMM: After the operation, the seven foot,
eight inch gentle giant decided to step into the limelight. And before long he was a celebrity
in his homeland, Brazil.
COMM: Joelison began to attract admirers,
including 21-year-old Evem Medeiros.
COMM: Evem, at five foot tall was almost three
foot shorter than him. But no obstacle was too big for this budding romance.
COMM: Just a year later the happy couple were
married. Recently they've been trying for a baby. Which has led to some unwelcome questions
about Joelison's proportions.
COMM: There's one person though who struggled
to accept their relationship. Joelison's mum.
COMM: But Joelison is determined to spread
his wings, and he'll soon be heading overseas for the first time to come face to face with
others with gigantism.
And his biggest fan, Evem, will be by his side.